Belgrade makes plans in case of negative Kosovo outcome

This is a strong leader that will do well for his nation!

Wow

How mature for a politician to say, we will 'inflict damage' back.

status of Kosovo is not about inflicting damage on anyone, its a about finding a solution to do further damage to the region, that the wars in the recent years have done.

This guy never ceases to amaze me with his childish retorics. just when you think he can't stoop any lower.

Planning and preparing is always the key.

I am sure some Albanian posters here will interpret this article to be some sort of sign that Serbia has "lost Kosovo" but really its not.

It is always and I mean always vital to be fully aware and prepared for every outcome even if it seems unlikely to happen.


Best example I can think of are Slovenians, now I may not like them very much but I sure was impressed the way they were prepared for Yugoslavia's collapse, long before it happened.

Good work PM Kostunica keep it up.

Very nice,
This was obviously due to Nikolic making that statement yesterday. They are trying to appease them for the time being because as everyone has noticed they have been very quiet. However, for the albans, it would be a nightmare if he came to power.

Honestly thought, for the West (alban support), Russia has already made it clear of the precident that this will make. So in the end what West is worried about is what Russia will do in return.
CCCC

Serbia should prepare to implement Hallstein Doctrine against any country recklessly recognizing Kosovo in contravention of UN Charter.

As an additional cautionary measure, Serbian Foreign Ministry should send a note to all UN member states and forewarn that in unlikely case of any country violates UN Charter and recognize Kosovo, Serbia will reciprocitate and recognize separaratist movements in that state as governments and territories they seek to amputate as independent countries under foreign occupation.

At the same time, an invitation for extended economical cooperation should be sent to all countries that abide by The UN Charter and oppose theft of Serbian territory.

Big guns are huffing bluffing, but in this case the pen is mightier than the sword - recognition of "kosova" is null and void under international law.

Kostunica may use the same tactics as Ceku, if we don't get what we want, then we threaten with violence. It's working for the Albanians.

At last some degree of truth in what MP is saying. I suspect he will temporarily cut diplomatic ties with Albania, the usual suspect, maybe Macedonia too.
I cant help but feeling that it would have been a great deal more productive if his government really engaged into the design of the democratic and multiethnic state in the south.

It's funny how Crow realized what this article is saying before any Albanian had a chance to comment on it.

Saying that we will never give up Kosovo and we are making retaliatory plans if we do does not add up logically speaking.

This is Kotstunica saying that we actually MAY end up loosing a stolen land (Kosovo). Don't expect him to come and say that after they gain independence we should be the best friends. In Serbia you tend to kill rational prime ministers.

Honestly, independence of Kosova does not give me that much thrills anymore, it has become a done deal. Now I looking forward to seeing what Kostunica does after that happens - I would assume he'll send a protest note to the rest of the world.

"Finally PM Koshutinca is coming around to face real world. This is big news and a bombshel for serb citizens that their PM is trying to send a message to its nation that KosovA is lost for ever and there is nothing he can do about it.
(ahmet isufi, 30. August 2007 19:36)"

Ahmed, are you actually yourself believing what you are writing???

you are really amazing! :)

and just another hint:
the former yugoslav army was not defeated by the Slovenians..

they pulled back their troops after a few days, and certainly not because they were defeated... Slovenia simply wasn´t worth it.

Finally PM Koshutinca is coming around to face real world. This is big news and a bombshel for serb citizens that their PM is trying to send a message to its nation that KosovA is lost for ever and there is nothing he can do about it.

Sir, Crow you are absolutaly right that Slovenia was wel prepared for divorce from serbia. They actually starved a ex-yugo military base and left them without water and no delivy of any food supplies was allowed.Bsically they had a plna for a long time how to defeat the most powrful army in Balkans and they did.

He should brake ties with every western country and US included, if he has what it takes, becasue they are the ones that bombed serbia and not Albania and Macedonia. anyway at leats I can speak for Albania that they don not care a bit about this.

Well Kostunica can in fact inflict some pain. After all he still has his Kalashnikov machine gun. After all this is man of justice and integrity, and maybe that's what justice and integrity calls for.
Maybe he'll shoot to the US soldiers of KFOR, after all he declared Holly War to the US.
We just wait and see. We are dealing with a person full of surprises; someone who always takes action. Maybe this time his actions won't be like his words.

So Bob Petrovich, do explain to us how applying the 'Hallstein Doctrine' (and the other measures you mention) is going to help Serbia in the long term? Or is it just some petulant throw-away analysis that a non-Serbia resident can afford to toss because he won't suffer the consequences?

Willy, hope it was not a rhetorical question. You assume there will be recognition of "kosova", I propose the measures to nip it in a bud.

If you carefully read what I wrote, the policy is two-prong. Stimulation of economic ties with the countries such as Greece, Indonesia, Israel,Russia, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain and others who support UN Charter. At the same sending a stark warning to those bent on stealing Serbian land - they should be warned that Aztlan, Corsican, Scottish or any other of over 200 prospective embassies can pop up in Belgrade, based on their reckless action. No one can accuse Serbia, because the warning will be given well in advance.

This policy of tending mutual interests works. For example, successful talks between Morroco and Serbia.

Oh yes, since you worry about well-being of Serbian nationals, there is a way to
offset economic loss, such as losing $5-10M annually in U.S. economic aid. Serbia should implement Helms-Burton Act towards nationals and companies trading with "kosova". To the letter of Helms-Burnton Act.The property of Serbian nationals and Serbian state is more valuable than the property confiscated by Castro in Cuba. Americans will understand, because it is their own act.

That means, if U.S. recognize "kosova" American companies attempting to do business in "kosova" can expect to have their assets seized in Serbia under Serbian Helms-Burton Act.

Countries providing support to extremist Albanians have to reconsider their interests -they can be hit harder then Serbia with their own actions. Because Money talks, Ahtisaari walks.

This is a good step forward for once. The Albanians aren't holding any cards that play. Their violence isn't particularly worrying for NATO. Now, on the other hand, Serbia could cause NATO countries some problems in Kosovo and outside of Kosovo. The time has come to show the will to play like NATO does and Kostunica just showed some inclination to do so. Good Job!

Mr.Kostunica: you are right in what you are saying, and the whole world fully understands your position. The USA would have reacted the same way, if Ahtisaari demanded a "supervised independence" for Texas, the UK - if somebody suggested to grant independence to Northern Ireland, etc.

Willy Garvin,

I hear what you say. Unfortunatelly, the reality is more complex. The countries you mention are the ones who illegally bombed Serbia and caused $60B of damage. They have no intention to pay for the damages they caused, let alone to apologize. Instead, they promise the carrot of economic aid, once they used the stick already.

The problem is, the carrot smells rotten. Take a stroll to Palmoticeva St. and observe garbage bins emblazoned with EU coat of arms, sent as an aid to Serbia. Then, walk to the bus stop close to "Do yaya" sandwich bar and see brand new yellow buses people of Japan sent to help Serbia. Or tram cars Switzerland sent. One does not have to be semiotician to see the writing on the wall. Japan and Switzerland did not bomb Serbia nor caused destruction and misery, but they gave friendly aid.

It takes two for tango, and two sides for any cooperation. EU countries and U.S. provided no assistance to trace and return millions Milosevic regime stole from Serbian people, altough the money went through their banks. If they will not help Serbia with her own money, only naive can expect they will assist Serbia with their own.

American "let there be country" is curious thing -
United States recognized Republic of South Viet Nam longer than 8 years, so it means nothing.Being American enemy is dangerous, being American ally is fatal. I hope the historical lesson is not lost on Haradinaj, Ceku &Co.

Since you live in Serbia, it could be a learning experience to observe Balkan shibicari at work (matchboxes are used instead of bottlecaps in Balkan version of shell game). To the untrained eye, it only seems that a player is betting against the shellman. In reality, victim is encircled by the entire con gang, consisting of enforcers and shills, up to 20 of them. The role of the shills is to persuade the victim to enter into the gang's grip and play the game that can not be won. When one knows what to look at, one can spot the entire con gang easily. The analogy with the current situation Serbia has found herself is not out of place. The Kosovo con game is illegal under international law. Shills want to persuade serbia to play and lose. Perhaps you can not see it clearly because you live in Serbia, encircled by shills.

NickShala,

you are absolutely right, there is no direct comparrison between Scotland and Kosovo. Until 300 years ago, Scotland was an independent country, while Kosovo was never a country. In the last 300 years, both the Scots, native population of Scotland and Serbs, native population of Kosovo were expelled from their homestead.
Don't worry wheter there will be Scottish Embassy in Belgrade or not. Let The Whitehall worry about that.

Btw. why is it that K-Albanian contributors have difficulty to quote the facts correctly? During NATO aggression on Serbia, 809.000 Albanians were registered as refugees, not one million.

It seems to me that extremist cause can be defended only with a barrage fire of outright lies and semi-truths.

Bob Petrovich,
I may not be Serb, but I do live in Serbia. I thus have first hand knowledge and understanding of the problems facing those here.

Serbia's real problems are economic not political. All of the measures that you propose would be counter-productive to Serbia's future development. If Kosovo becomes independent as seems very likely, it is almost certain to be recognised (with or without UNSC consent) by the US and many in the EU. It is these states that you propose Serbia shuns. It is these states that Serbia needs most to develop economically.

We can pontificate for as long as you like on what is right and wrong in international law, but the reality is that Serbia needs to be friends with just those countries you propose they should turn their back on.

The only people who are putting Serbian pride before commonsense are foolish ultra-nationalists and those in the diaspora who have nothing to lose. Although the SRS is indeed the largest party in parliament, those parties representing Euro-Atlantic integration have collectively obtained over 50% in all national elections this century.

The US has decided Kosovo must be independent, it has spent the last 8 years promising just that. So independent it shall be. The only question is when. It is the single worst case of appeasement since Munich 1938, but nevertheless it's very real.

"In reality Slovenia was the crown jewel, the most advanced colony (pardon "federal state") of Serbia within the entity once called Yougoslavia. A long time ago in Tito's time I once visited Slovenia."

Joe, my dear, if I wrote that Slovenia was not worth it to be fought over, than I meant the officially and commonly accepted explanation, namely there was no significant serbian population in Slovenia. so if they chose to go, they were free to go...of course they presented it as a victory...but whoever knows only a little bit about the strength and capabilities of the Yugoslav Army, ...would not write such a nonsense.

I know it is quite difficult to understand that from your personal, flawed view on the events in or from the former SFRJ up to today..., but nevertheless, you should at least try to think before you write long explanations that are not needed.

The only way a "negative Kosovo outcome" might be possible were if Serbia disengaged from any negotiations and all K Serbs fled into Serbia Proper. Serbia needs to stop looking for what it cannot achieve and start realizing it can still have tremendous influence in Kosovo's Serb provinces if it lets the Albanian parts go. Taking one or two steps back, may position you to take a number of unforseen leaps forward.

"Slovenia simply wasn't worth it" states my boy. In reality Slovenia was the crown jewel, the most advanced colony (pardon "federal state") of Serbia within the entity once called Yougoslavia. A long time ago in Tito's time I once visited Slovenia. The Slovens complained that Serbia was exploiting them economically. When finally the moment came to throw the Serbs out the door they did it smartly and the whole world applauded. Far from Serbia, with supply lines completely cut off, the Serbs had no other choice but to say "adieu". That was the fact Jovan.
And today? That small rich country with a GDP per capita not far behind that of Austria and more than 4 times greater than that of Serbia put Serbia to shame. Occasionally there are articles with pictures about Slovenia in American an French newspapers or internet sites. They all describe its beauty and the kindness of its well educated people. They can hadly believe that once it was part of that artificial entity called Yougoslavia.

I can predict what these plans will entail -- they will be quite practical actually:
1. de factor partition at the Ibar.
2. Nato and EU being held responsible for the security of the Orthodox churches south of the Ibar. Unless the West is prepared to fund for them to be physically relocated to the north -- can be done actually -- refer to Abu Simbel in Egypt which is probably a 100 times larger than Decani.

Willie, I'm glad to have substantial discussion here for a change. Do you recall The Times headline "Fog in Channel: Europe Isolated"
Of what isolationism you are talking about? There are 192 UN member states. Severing relations with several of them or demoting to Charge d'Affaires level is not isolationism. Any self-respected country would take such pragmatic policy. Serbia cannot expect to be considered as a trustworthy partner if not willing to defend her own interests first. You know the saying, "If I am not for myself, for whom then, if not now, when?"

The "international community" you mentioned consists of United States, Great Britain and couple of other countries, having no more than 650 million people among themselves. They clearly do not represent 6.5 billion Earthlings, nor do they represent all members of the UN. Two permanent UNSEC members and good number of those who are or or will become temporary UN members.

Just to remind you that Serbian Diaspora is contributing over $3B annually to Serbia's coffers. Much of it is direct injection into state budget due to artificial exchange rate. Serbia's economic growth would mean less of individual financial strain, so we are in the same boat, whether living in Serbia or not.

What to say to your mother in law? Tough question. Perhaps you can console her by telling her that money is not growing on trees and that everywhere in the Free world, Old Age Social security schemes are facing the Ponzi scheme's end, due to demographics. Even affluent EU members, such as Austria adjust their Old Age security. Serbia was only the first one to reach the edge of the cliff. Only economic growth of Serbia can provide a prospect of receiving pension cheques, but EU membership does not mean granted economic growth - a look over the fence to Romania and Bulgaria is quite telling.

What to tell to your children? Perhaps to tell them that in English usage the term "nationalism" and "nationalist" has positive connotation, unlike in Communist wooden language used in Serbia many years ago. Being Serbian Nationalist is no different from British, Polish, Irish, French or any other. What else to tell them? Perhaps what well-connected parents in U.S.of A advise their children -to learn Mandarin from an early age. Belgrade has the infrastructure to become one of the world’s hubs. They are already blessed for being bilingual, having multilingual skills can multiply their earning potential in the future. So they will not have to worry about the public transportation.

Joe,

The only thing laughable on this thread is your post lacking knowledge but pretending to be knowledgeable.

According to the official data, in Y2003 alone, 2.74B Euro (more than US$3B) was sent from abroad to foreign currency accounts in Serbian banks. It is comparable to the entire Serbian export.

http://www.24x7.co.yu/default.aspx?cid=600&fid=400&pid=BANKARSKA_RACUNICA

Perhaps next time before making a laughingstock out of your post, you should check the facts first and then make the comments, if you have any.

Your racist statement about Asian and African countries
requires comment. Many of those countries are on higher civilisational level than demonstrated in Albanian-dominated Kosovo and have higher GDP than Albania.

The faster you learn the facts, the better.

"If someone inflicts damage upon you, then you... must respond in kind, inflicting back some damage as well."

Well put, Mr. Kostunica. There isn't a family I know here in Kosovo that didn't suffer some sort of 'damage' 1989-1999. But, in fact, vindicta it isn't in the Albanian code, strictly speaking. Pristina isn't trying to 'inflict damage' on anybody or anything.

Truth be known, there are many, many of Tito's children still running around here, but they still want to move out of the house... which I guess you could understand, given recent history of relations between Serbs and K Albanians. That much I've learned after seven years of trying to trying to re-build bridges between the [now] two communities.

Bob,
that is a wishy-washy talk.
All of the sudden you are sensitive to Asian and African countries?
Until few years ago Serbia was killing people left and right.
Spare me and all of us your dogma.

Willie, I see you have absorbed Serbian trait to be too emotional and resort to personal attacks in a debate.
It is true that one can pound on the table when neither the facts or the law are on his side, but this is not effective.

You may live in a real world, but it seems that this world does not include the world of business. And the facts are stranger than fiction.
For example, after 1991 Gulf War U.S. did not have any diplomatic relations with Saddam's Iraq. Yet, the biggest U.S. oil import from ME came from Saddam's Iraq, not from Kuwait or Saudi Arabia. As I said, money talks. Mutual economic interests prevail over diplomatic issues. "Mutual" is operative here. Use of diplomacy can facilitate improve economic relations, but is not mandatory.The point is, you can trade even with the companies from the hostile countries,(e.g. American companies with Hitler and Saddam) but you can not make friendly relations with the hostile countries - this is the nonsense you propose.
The countries who trained terrorists, bombed Serbia, occupied Serbian territory, failed to adhere to the Hague convention as an occupying force and continue hostile actions towards Serbia are not amicable countries.

Since you repeatedly ask me what to tell to your children and your mother in law, tell them that giving Kosovo on a platter will not improve economic outlook for Serbia one iota, regardless of what shills promise.

One can not blame shills, they are only doing their job.

Niall O'Doherty,

Good afternoon. I couldn't agree with you more if I tried. Slovenia's position in 1990 was pure selfishness based upon economic issues not political. They decided to persue independence in the full knowledge that they would manage to break free from SFRJ with relative ease and that they would condemn the rest of the SFRJ to a bloodbath.

In regards to Kosovo, I also fully agree. The current US position that independence should be granted based upon the threat of violence is akin to the appeasement of Munich 1938. The US in particular, the EU to a lesser extent, is more concerned about the credibility of their position rather than the credibility of the policy!

However, it's not the US or the EU position that worries me. It's the Russians we should be wary of. If you delve under the surface, it is actually very much in their interest to see Kosovo declare unilateral independence, have this recognised by the US and the EU (but not the UNSC), to enjoy the greatest degree of independence as possible and, as icing on the cake, to encourage Serbia not to resist too forcefully. I see the Russians have set an ambush into which the US and the EU is blissfully walking like the 3 monkeys. Serbia is just being used as an expendable pawn. Worrying, very worrying!

Bob Petrovich

Don't compare Kosovo with some other regoins in Europe. For you information Scottish people do not want to be independent. There were two referemdums on independecne in Scotland and they both failed miserably.

So if Belgrade was to dedicated a building for Scotland's Embassy they scottish parlieament would probably send youa letter to say 'close it'.

At the same time England did not kill thousands of scottish people and expelled 1 million in the last 10 years.

Bob Petrovich,

So you think the world is a mean place and the international community did wrong in bombing Serbia. Tell me something I don't already know.

My two children take the yellow 'donation from Japan' buses every day to school (line 26). These new German MAN vehicles are clearly far safer, more reliable, and environmentally friendlier than the tatty 20 year old Ikarbus deathtraps that they replaced: exposed electrical fittings, non-functioning doors, holes in floors and sides and so on...

Now, please explain to my children why they should have to return to the days of Serbian isolationism and no future just so that you can crow about how proud and independent Serbs are.

Please explain to my mother-in-law who is trying to live on a state pension, why she should go back to 'waiting' to earn enough to feed herself.

Kosovo independence against the will of the majority of the Serbian people is frankly wrong. Your notion of proving Serbia's 'justness' by turning the clockback to Milosevic era isolationism as a measure to spite the international community is pathetic and just plain dumb.

Bob Petrovich,
Reading your comment I just want to point out few thinks:
-if those billions of people are so important to you (more than the advanced Western nations) than try to commerce with African and Asian nations. Good luck to you!
- 3 billion Dollars from the diaspora? Whom are you kidding?
- Belgrade as a world's hub? What a joke. Most European capitals think that they are one or could be one.

Bob Petrovich,

I had assumed you were living in the diaspora. Now I suspect you are living with Alice in Wonderland or an amateur spin merchant working on behalf of the SRS or similar.

I notice you avoid deliberately the real issues which are at stake in Serbia and continue to bang on about theoretical and irrelevant IR concepts. If you think that makes you look clever, think again.

So what if Serbia maintains links with country X and can therefore claim not to be isolationist? Do you really think that a trade agreement with Morocco is a beneficial as one with the US or the UK?

I live in the real world. All states are NOT the same. Serbia needs the inward investment for the world's richest economies which, regrettably are the very same ones who are clearly in favour of Kosovo independence. Those same countries don't care about Serbia. Who's the winner and who's the loser if Serbia breaks ties? It is clearly a dilemma for Serbia how to proceed.

However, your suggestions are not only inappropriate, but also counter-productive to the long term economic future of Serbia.

Moreover, some of the arguments you propose have not been thought through particularly well by yourself. They are shallow and often, if properly thought through, actually counter-productive to your position.

And when you, if you are indeed in the diaspora, try to suggest that you will suffer equally, your really do start to talk in completely nonsensical terms.

I ask again, what answers do you have for my children and my mother-in-law as to why their future in Serbia has to suffer because of your distant dreams of Serbian strength, solidarity and pride?

Bob Petrovich,

Taking a couple of cheap sarcastic swipes is a technique I have developed (usually with Americans) who have deluded themselves into thinking they are having an honest and mature discussion - when in reality they are quite deliberately NOT discussing but simply pushing their own opinionated nonsense over and over again.

You can recite as many tangental and irrelevant facts and examples as you wish in order to look clever and confuse the ignorant masses. When you start applying those facts, or better still, more relevant facts to the actual context of the discussion, then I will start showing a little more respect.

So far, all you have offered this thread is your opinionated nonsense supported (ha!) by irrelevancies which, under closer examination, do not serve the line you are apparently taking very well.

For example, please explain just how the US/Iraq relationship circa 1991-2003 you've just brought up is an indicator of how relations between US/Serbia will develop if Pristina declares self-determination in November and the US extends formal diplomatic links to them? Are you suggesting that Serbia will become the largest supplier of oil to the US?

PS. It would also help your position if you stated 'facts' correctly. Try looking around the US Dept. of Energy website to see the actual numbers regarding oil imports during the 1990s and you will quickly see the abject absurdity of information that you present above.

Willy Garvin, let's set the record straight. You call my post "abject absurdity of information" although it is evident that you either are not well versed in the subject or deliberately twist the facts.

In Y2001 8.5% of U.S. oil imports came from Iraq.(Besides declared Iraqi import, a lot of Iraqi oil came through the third countries).

Bluffing is good, but only when playing poker. See for yourself, from U.S. Department of Energy, one you suggested:
http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/dnav/pet/pet_move_impcus_a2_nus_ep00_im0_mbbl_a.htm

It's better to check by yourself than rely on false info Modesty Blaise feeds you.

This illustration is relevant for Serbia, because it shows that if you have the export product, you can export it regardless of diplomatic relations. The problem is - Serbia does not have much to offer. The export to U.S. is negligible, the same as American aid. Recently, Bush approved aid to Serbia of some 10 million dollars. It's one dollar per capita. I guess your mother in law and your children could survive without that 3-4 dollars of American aid.

I found your change of heart astonishing. From someone who
opposed theft of Kosovo in April, you have turned into someone who use false arguments based on false data to defend what he himself opposed only four months ago.

I was interested in constructive dialogue. Since it is not possible, I am out.

Bob Petrovich,

So I'm a bad bluffer am I. Let's look at your game plan then:

You said: "the biggest U.S. oil import from ME came from Saddam's Iraq, not from Kuwait or Saudi Arabia."

From the link that YOU provide:
Oil imported to US in 2001 from Iraq was 289,998 thousand barrels.
Oil imported to US in 2001 from Saudi was 606,753 thousand barrels.

So, Imports form Iraq are larger than Saudi are they?

That's why I say your comments is an "abject absurdity". You've just proven it for me and for everyone else to see.

Modesty is a cute little thing who often serves me well. You should try it some time.

Shame you're getting out because the last bit of your post was actually starting to make some logical sense - and helping my point into the bargain. I guess that's why you're getting out, when you talk logic it destroys the ideological drivel you're peddling.

My thoughts on Kosovo have not changed. I've spent the last week identifying your attempt to take Serbia back to the dark ages in the name of 'Serbian pride from the diaspora'.

Look forward to seeing you again. Hope next time you come with some accurate facts and some honest debate. Goodbye.

Some of our resident pro-Albanian/independence voters have a selective memory when it comes to the history of the SFRJ. Well let me clear up a few things about

Slovenia. True, Slovenia was the golden goose of the SFRJ earning close to 25% of the GDP. Slovenia's main gripe against the SFRJ was economic not political. May I remind Joe and Mr Isufii that alot of the money being generated by the Slovenes was going to Kosovo to fund those various generous welfare programmes and infrastructure.

Once it was not in Slovenia's interest to remain in the SFRJ, they left bringing down the whole federation like a house of cards.

Secondly, looking at the military aspect. The JNA in Slovenia comprised mainly of teenage conscripts coming up against well armed, trained and highly motivated Slovene police and TO. Kadijevic believed that the Slovenes would roll over as soon as they saw the tanks was proved wrong. The request of the JNA Chiefs of Staff (Brovat, Kolsek, Kadijevic and Adzic) to redeploy 60,000 troops stationed in Nis, Skopje and Belgrade to pacify Slovenia was vetoed by Milosevic who rightly saw the unfeasability of the Generals' plan because the army would not have been able to hold Slovenia due to the upcoming conflict in Croatia. Remember the JNA had to pass through Croatian territory and its soldiers were already by late June 1991 under virtual siege in their main barracks in Split, Osijek and Zagreb, not counting Slovenia's geographic position. iN short the JNA were not defeated in Slovenia, they abandoned it and instead concentrated its forces in Croatia and BiH where it was much more feasable to launch the defence of what was left of the SFRJ. Remember the JNA's main ideology and battle plan was the defence of YU and reallign the federation around the centralised control from Belgrade.

Lastly, Mr. Garvin. Serbia simply cannot give up Kosovo. If it did it would be a fatal blow for the very integrity of the Serbian state as was Slovenia's departure was for SFRJ. It would send out the wrong signal and be seen by the Preshevo Albanians, Sandzak Muslims and other groups as a sign of weakness that Belgrade cannot even maintain its own sovereignty and would fuel their own individual demands for secession. Rememeber Serbia is a multiethnic state.

The threat, as noted by some above, is directed at U.S. policy in Europe, specifically related to Central Europe and Russia.

Serbia is counting on the idea that the U.S. can't afford an enemy like Serbia in the Balkans.

I believe that the Serbs have been one of the greatest allies of the U.S. in the Balkans, if not worldwide.

Speaking as an American, I think it would be a shame for us to lose a great ally for the sake of another who is questionable at best.

Finally PM Koshutinca is coming around to face real world. This is big news and a bombshel for serb citizens that their PM is trying to send a message to its nation that KosovA is lost for ever and there is nothing he can do about it.

Well Kostunica can in fact inflict some pain. After all he still has his Kalashnikov machine gun. After all this is man of justice and integrity, and maybe that's what justice and integrity calls for.
Maybe he'll shoot to the US soldiers of KFOR, after all he declared Holly War to the US.
We just wait and see. We are dealing with a person full of surprises; someone who always takes action. Maybe this time his actions won't be like his words.

He should brake ties with every western country and US included, if he has what it takes, becasue they are the ones that bombed serbia and not Albania and Macedonia. anyway at leats I can speak for Albania that they don not care a bit about this.

Sir, Crow you are absolutaly right that Slovenia was wel prepared for divorce from serbia. They actually starved a ex-yugo military base and left them without water and no delivy of any food supplies was allowed.Bsically they had a plna for a long time how to defeat the most powrful army in Balkans and they did.

Wow

How mature for a politician to say, we will 'inflict damage' back.

status of Kosovo is not about inflicting damage on anyone, its a about finding a solution to do further damage to the region, that the wars in the recent years have done.

This guy never ceases to amaze me with his childish retorics. just when you think he can't stoop any lower.

This is a strong leader that will do well for his nation!

At last some degree of truth in what MP is saying. I suspect he will temporarily cut diplomatic ties with Albania, the usual suspect, maybe Macedonia too.
I cant help but feeling that it would have been a great deal more productive if his government really engaged into the design of the democratic and multiethnic state in the south.

It's funny how Crow realized what this article is saying before any Albanian had a chance to comment on it.

Saying that we will never give up Kosovo and we are making retaliatory plans if we do does not add up logically speaking.

This is Kotstunica saying that we actually MAY end up loosing a stolen land (Kosovo). Don't expect him to come and say that after they gain independence we should be the best friends. In Serbia you tend to kill rational prime ministers.

Honestly, independence of Kosova does not give me that much thrills anymore, it has become a done deal. Now I looking forward to seeing what Kostunica does after that happens - I would assume he'll send a protest note to the rest of the world.

So Bob Petrovich, do explain to us how applying the 'Hallstein Doctrine' (and the other measures you mention) is going to help Serbia in the long term? Or is it just some petulant throw-away analysis that a non-Serbia resident can afford to toss because he won't suffer the consequences?

"Slovenia simply wasn't worth it" states my boy. In reality Slovenia was the crown jewel, the most advanced colony (pardon "federal state") of Serbia within the entity once called Yougoslavia. A long time ago in Tito's time I once visited Slovenia. The Slovens complained that Serbia was exploiting them economically. When finally the moment came to throw the Serbs out the door they did it smartly and the whole world applauded. Far from Serbia, with supply lines completely cut off, the Serbs had no other choice but to say "adieu". That was the fact Jovan.
And today? That small rich country with a GDP per capita not far behind that of Austria and more than 4 times greater than that of Serbia put Serbia to shame. Occasionally there are articles with pictures about Slovenia in American an French newspapers or internet sites. They all describe its beauty and the kindness of its well educated people. They can hadly believe that once it was part of that artificial entity called Yougoslavia.

Bob Petrovich

Don't compare Kosovo with some other regoins in Europe. For you information Scottish people do not want to be independent. There were two referemdums on independecne in Scotland and they both failed miserably.

So if Belgrade was to dedicated a building for Scotland's Embassy they scottish parlieament would probably send youa letter to say 'close it'.

At the same time England did not kill thousands of scottish people and expelled 1 million in the last 10 years.

Planning and preparing is always the key.

I am sure some Albanian posters here will interpret this article to be some sort of sign that Serbia has "lost Kosovo" but really its not.

It is always and I mean always vital to be fully aware and prepared for every outcome even if it seems unlikely to happen.


Best example I can think of are Slovenians, now I may not like them very much but I sure was impressed the way they were prepared for Yugoslavia's collapse, long before it happened.

Good work PM Kostunica keep it up.

Very nice,
This was obviously due to Nikolic making that statement yesterday. They are trying to appease them for the time being because as everyone has noticed they have been very quiet. However, for the albans, it would be a nightmare if he came to power.

Honestly thought, for the West (alban support), Russia has already made it clear of the precident that this will make. So in the end what West is worried about is what Russia will do in return.
CCCC

Serbia should prepare to implement Hallstein Doctrine against any country recklessly recognizing Kosovo in contravention of UN Charter.

As an additional cautionary measure, Serbian Foreign Ministry should send a note to all UN member states and forewarn that in unlikely case of any country violates UN Charter and recognize Kosovo, Serbia will reciprocitate and recognize separaratist movements in that state as governments and territories they seek to amputate as independent countries under foreign occupation.

At the same time, an invitation for extended economical cooperation should be sent to all countries that abide by The UN Charter and oppose theft of Serbian territory.

Big guns are huffing bluffing, but in this case the pen is mightier than the sword - recognition of "kosova" is null and void under international law.

The only way a "negative Kosovo outcome" might be possible were if Serbia disengaged from any negotiations and all K Serbs fled into Serbia Proper. Serbia needs to stop looking for what it cannot achieve and start realizing it can still have tremendous influence in Kosovo's Serb provinces if it lets the Albanian parts go. Taking one or two steps back, may position you to take a number of unforseen leaps forward.

"Finally PM Koshutinca is coming around to face real world. This is big news and a bombshel for serb citizens that their PM is trying to send a message to its nation that KosovA is lost for ever and there is nothing he can do about it.
(ahmet isufi, 30. August 2007 19:36)"

Ahmed, are you actually yourself believing what you are writing???

you are really amazing! :)

and just another hint:
the former yugoslav army was not defeated by the Slovenians..

they pulled back their troops after a few days, and certainly not because they were defeated... Slovenia simply wasn´t worth it.

Kostunica may use the same tactics as Ceku, if we don't get what we want, then we threaten with violence. It's working for the Albanians.

Bob Petrovich,
I may not be Serb, but I do live in Serbia. I thus have first hand knowledge and understanding of the problems facing those here.

Serbia's real problems are economic not political. All of the measures that you propose would be counter-productive to Serbia's future development. If Kosovo becomes independent as seems very likely, it is almost certain to be recognised (with or without UNSC consent) by the US and many in the EU. It is these states that you propose Serbia shuns. It is these states that Serbia needs most to develop economically.

We can pontificate for as long as you like on what is right and wrong in international law, but the reality is that Serbia needs to be friends with just those countries you propose they should turn their back on.

The only people who are putting Serbian pride before commonsense are foolish ultra-nationalists and those in the diaspora who have nothing to lose. Although the SRS is indeed the largest party in parliament, those parties representing Euro-Atlantic integration have collectively obtained over 50% in all national elections this century.

The US has decided Kosovo must be independent, it has spent the last 8 years promising just that. So independent it shall be. The only question is when. It is the single worst case of appeasement since Munich 1938, but nevertheless it's very real.

Bob Petrovich,

So you think the world is a mean place and the international community did wrong in bombing Serbia. Tell me something I don't already know.

My two children take the yellow 'donation from Japan' buses every day to school (line 26). These new German MAN vehicles are clearly far safer, more reliable, and environmentally friendlier than the tatty 20 year old Ikarbus deathtraps that they replaced: exposed electrical fittings, non-functioning doors, holes in floors and sides and so on...

Now, please explain to my children why they should have to return to the days of Serbian isolationism and no future just so that you can crow about how proud and independent Serbs are.

Please explain to my mother-in-law who is trying to live on a state pension, why she should go back to 'waiting' to earn enough to feed herself.

Kosovo independence against the will of the majority of the Serbian people is frankly wrong. Your notion of proving Serbia's 'justness' by turning the clockback to Milosevic era isolationism as a measure to spite the international community is pathetic and just plain dumb.

Bob Petrovich,
Reading your comment I just want to point out few thinks:
-if those billions of people are so important to you (more than the advanced Western nations) than try to commerce with African and Asian nations. Good luck to you!
- 3 billion Dollars from the diaspora? Whom are you kidding?
- Belgrade as a world's hub? What a joke. Most European capitals think that they are one or could be one.

Bob,
that is a wishy-washy talk.
All of the sudden you are sensitive to Asian and African countries?
Until few years ago Serbia was killing people left and right.
Spare me and all of us your dogma.

Willy, hope it was not a rhetorical question. You assume there will be recognition of "kosova", I propose the measures to nip it in a bud.

If you carefully read what I wrote, the policy is two-prong. Stimulation of economic ties with the countries such as Greece, Indonesia, Israel,Russia, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain and others who support UN Charter. At the same sending a stark warning to those bent on stealing Serbian land - they should be warned that Aztlan, Corsican, Scottish or any other of over 200 prospective embassies can pop up in Belgrade, based on their reckless action. No one can accuse Serbia, because the warning will be given well in advance.

This policy of tending mutual interests works. For example, successful talks between Morroco and Serbia.

Oh yes, since you worry about well-being of Serbian nationals, there is a way to
offset economic loss, such as losing $5-10M annually in U.S. economic aid. Serbia should implement Helms-Burton Act towards nationals and companies trading with "kosova". To the letter of Helms-Burnton Act.The property of Serbian nationals and Serbian state is more valuable than the property confiscated by Castro in Cuba. Americans will understand, because it is their own act.

That means, if U.S. recognize "kosova" American companies attempting to do business in "kosova" can expect to have their assets seized in Serbia under Serbian Helms-Burton Act.

Countries providing support to extremist Albanians have to reconsider their interests -they can be hit harder then Serbia with their own actions. Because Money talks, Ahtisaari walks.

I can predict what these plans will entail -- they will be quite practical actually:
1. de factor partition at the Ibar.
2. Nato and EU being held responsible for the security of the Orthodox churches south of the Ibar. Unless the West is prepared to fund for them to be physically relocated to the north -- can be done actually -- refer to Abu Simbel in Egypt which is probably a 100 times larger than Decani.

"If someone inflicts damage upon you, then you... must respond in kind, inflicting back some damage as well."

Well put, Mr. Kostunica. There isn't a family I know here in Kosovo that didn't suffer some sort of 'damage' 1989-1999. But, in fact, vindicta it isn't in the Albanian code, strictly speaking. Pristina isn't trying to 'inflict damage' on anybody or anything.

Truth be known, there are many, many of Tito's children still running around here, but they still want to move out of the house... which I guess you could understand, given recent history of relations between Serbs and K Albanians. That much I've learned after seven years of trying to trying to re-build bridges between the [now] two communities.

This is a good step forward for once. The Albanians aren't holding any cards that play. Their violence isn't particularly worrying for NATO. Now, on the other hand, Serbia could cause NATO countries some problems in Kosovo and outside of Kosovo. The time has come to show the will to play like NATO does and Kostunica just showed some inclination to do so. Good Job!

Mr.Kostunica: you are right in what you are saying, and the whole world fully understands your position. The USA would have reacted the same way, if Ahtisaari demanded a "supervised independence" for Texas, the UK - if somebody suggested to grant independence to Northern Ireland, etc.

"In reality Slovenia was the crown jewel, the most advanced colony (pardon "federal state") of Serbia within the entity once called Yougoslavia. A long time ago in Tito's time I once visited Slovenia."

Joe, my dear, if I wrote that Slovenia was not worth it to be fought over, than I meant the officially and commonly accepted explanation, namely there was no significant serbian population in Slovenia. so if they chose to go, they were free to go...of course they presented it as a victory...but whoever knows only a little bit about the strength and capabilities of the Yugoslav Army, ...would not write such a nonsense.

I know it is quite difficult to understand that from your personal, flawed view on the events in or from the former SFRJ up to today..., but nevertheless, you should at least try to think before you write long explanations that are not needed.

Willy Garvin,

I hear what you say. Unfortunatelly, the reality is more complex. The countries you mention are the ones who illegally bombed Serbia and caused $60B of damage. They have no intention to pay for the damages they caused, let alone to apologize. Instead, they promise the carrot of economic aid, once they used the stick already.

The problem is, the carrot smells rotten. Take a stroll to Palmoticeva St. and observe garbage bins emblazoned with EU coat of arms, sent as an aid to Serbia. Then, walk to the bus stop close to "Do yaya" sandwich bar and see brand new yellow buses people of Japan sent to help Serbia. Or tram cars Switzerland sent. One does not have to be semiotician to see the writing on the wall. Japan and Switzerland did not bomb Serbia nor caused destruction and misery, but they gave friendly aid.

It takes two for tango, and two sides for any cooperation. EU countries and U.S. provided no assistance to trace and return millions Milosevic regime stole from Serbian people, altough the money went through their banks. If they will not help Serbia with her own money, only naive can expect they will assist Serbia with their own.

American "let there be country" is curious thing -
United States recognized Republic of South Viet Nam longer than 8 years, so it means nothing.Being American enemy is dangerous, being American ally is fatal. I hope the historical lesson is not lost on Haradinaj, Ceku &Co.

Since you live in Serbia, it could be a learning experience to observe Balkan shibicari at work (matchboxes are used instead of bottlecaps in Balkan version of shell game). To the untrained eye, it only seems that a player is betting against the shellman. In reality, victim is encircled by the entire con gang, consisting of enforcers and shills, up to 20 of them. The role of the shills is to persuade the victim to enter into the gang's grip and play the game that can not be won. When one knows what to look at, one can spot the entire con gang easily. The analogy with the current situation Serbia has found herself is not out of place. The Kosovo con game is illegal under international law. Shills want to persuade serbia to play and lose. Perhaps you can not see it clearly because you live in Serbia, encircled by shills.

NickShala,

you are absolutely right, there is no direct comparrison between Scotland and Kosovo. Until 300 years ago, Scotland was an independent country, while Kosovo was never a country. In the last 300 years, both the Scots, native population of Scotland and Serbs, native population of Kosovo were expelled from their homestead.
Don't worry wheter there will be Scottish Embassy in Belgrade or not. Let The Whitehall worry about that.

Btw. why is it that K-Albanian contributors have difficulty to quote the facts correctly? During NATO aggression on Serbia, 809.000 Albanians were registered as refugees, not one million.

It seems to me that extremist cause can be defended only with a barrage fire of outright lies and semi-truths.

Willie, I'm glad to have substantial discussion here for a change. Do you recall The Times headline "Fog in Channel: Europe Isolated"
Of what isolationism you are talking about? There are 192 UN member states. Severing relations with several of them or demoting to Charge d'Affaires level is not isolationism. Any self-respected country would take such pragmatic policy. Serbia cannot expect to be considered as a trustworthy partner if not willing to defend her own interests first. You know the saying, "If I am not for myself, for whom then, if not now, when?"

The "international community" you mentioned consists of United States, Great Britain and couple of other countries, having no more than 650 million people among themselves. They clearly do not represent 6.5 billion Earthlings, nor do they represent all members of the UN. Two permanent UNSEC members and good number of those who are or or will become temporary UN members.

Just to remind you that Serbian Diaspora is contributing over $3B annually to Serbia's coffers. Much of it is direct injection into state budget due to artificial exchange rate. Serbia's economic growth would mean less of individual financial strain, so we are in the same boat, whether living in Serbia or not.

What to say to your mother in law? Tough question. Perhaps you can console her by telling her that money is not growing on trees and that everywhere in the Free world, Old Age Social security schemes are facing the Ponzi scheme's end, due to demographics. Even affluent EU members, such as Austria adjust their Old Age security. Serbia was only the first one to reach the edge of the cliff. Only economic growth of Serbia can provide a prospect of receiving pension cheques, but EU membership does not mean granted economic growth - a look over the fence to Romania and Bulgaria is quite telling.

What to tell to your children? Perhaps to tell them that in English usage the term "nationalism" and "nationalist" has positive connotation, unlike in Communist wooden language used in Serbia many years ago. Being Serbian Nationalist is no different from British, Polish, Irish, French or any other. What else to tell them? Perhaps what well-connected parents in U.S.of A advise their children -to learn Mandarin from an early age. Belgrade has the infrastructure to become one of the world’s hubs. They are already blessed for being bilingual, having multilingual skills can multiply their earning potential in the future. So they will not have to worry about the public transportation.

Joe,

The only thing laughable on this thread is your post lacking knowledge but pretending to be knowledgeable.

According to the official data, in Y2003 alone, 2.74B Euro (more than US$3B) was sent from abroad to foreign currency accounts in Serbian banks. It is comparable to the entire Serbian export.

http://www.24x7.co.yu/default.aspx?cid=600&fid=400&pid=BANKARSKA_RACUNICA

Perhaps next time before making a laughingstock out of your post, you should check the facts first and then make the comments, if you have any.

Your racist statement about Asian and African countries
requires comment. Many of those countries are on higher civilisational level than demonstrated in Albanian-dominated Kosovo and have higher GDP than Albania.

The faster you learn the facts, the better.

Bob Petrovich,

I had assumed you were living in the diaspora. Now I suspect you are living with Alice in Wonderland or an amateur spin merchant working on behalf of the SRS or similar.

I notice you avoid deliberately the real issues which are at stake in Serbia and continue to bang on about theoretical and irrelevant IR concepts. If you think that makes you look clever, think again.

So what if Serbia maintains links with country X and can therefore claim not to be isolationist? Do you really think that a trade agreement with Morocco is a beneficial as one with the US or the UK?

I live in the real world. All states are NOT the same. Serbia needs the inward investment for the world's richest economies which, regrettably are the very same ones who are clearly in favour of Kosovo independence. Those same countries don't care about Serbia. Who's the winner and who's the loser if Serbia breaks ties? It is clearly a dilemma for Serbia how to proceed.

However, your suggestions are not only inappropriate, but also counter-productive to the long term economic future of Serbia.

Moreover, some of the arguments you propose have not been thought through particularly well by yourself. They are shallow and often, if properly thought through, actually counter-productive to your position.

And when you, if you are indeed in the diaspora, try to suggest that you will suffer equally, your really do start to talk in completely nonsensical terms.

I ask again, what answers do you have for my children and my mother-in-law as to why their future in Serbia has to suffer because of your distant dreams of Serbian strength, solidarity and pride?

Willie, I see you have absorbed Serbian trait to be too emotional and resort to personal attacks in a debate.
It is true that one can pound on the table when neither the facts or the law are on his side, but this is not effective.

You may live in a real world, but it seems that this world does not include the world of business. And the facts are stranger than fiction.
For example, after 1991 Gulf War U.S. did not have any diplomatic relations with Saddam's Iraq. Yet, the biggest U.S. oil import from ME came from Saddam's Iraq, not from Kuwait or Saudi Arabia. As I said, money talks. Mutual economic interests prevail over diplomatic issues. "Mutual" is operative here. Use of diplomacy can facilitate improve economic relations, but is not mandatory.The point is, you can trade even with the companies from the hostile countries,(e.g. American companies with Hitler and Saddam) but you can not make friendly relations with the hostile countries - this is the nonsense you propose.
The countries who trained terrorists, bombed Serbia, occupied Serbian territory, failed to adhere to the Hague convention as an occupying force and continue hostile actions towards Serbia are not amicable countries.

Since you repeatedly ask me what to tell to your children and your mother in law, tell them that giving Kosovo on a platter will not improve economic outlook for Serbia one iota, regardless of what shills promise.

One can not blame shills, they are only doing their job.

Bob Petrovich,

Taking a couple of cheap sarcastic swipes is a technique I have developed (usually with Americans) who have deluded themselves into thinking they are having an honest and mature discussion - when in reality they are quite deliberately NOT discussing but simply pushing their own opinionated nonsense over and over again.

You can recite as many tangental and irrelevant facts and examples as you wish in order to look clever and confuse the ignorant masses. When you start applying those facts, or better still, more relevant facts to the actual context of the discussion, then I will start showing a little more respect.

So far, all you have offered this thread is your opinionated nonsense supported (ha!) by irrelevancies which, under closer examination, do not serve the line you are apparently taking very well.

For example, please explain just how the US/Iraq relationship circa 1991-2003 you've just brought up is an indicator of how relations between US/Serbia will develop if Pristina declares self-determination in November and the US extends formal diplomatic links to them? Are you suggesting that Serbia will become the largest supplier of oil to the US?

PS. It would also help your position if you stated 'facts' correctly. Try looking around the US Dept. of Energy website to see the actual numbers regarding oil imports during the 1990s and you will quickly see the abject absurdity of information that you present above.

Willy Garvin, let's set the record straight. You call my post "abject absurdity of information" although it is evident that you either are not well versed in the subject or deliberately twist the facts.

In Y2001 8.5% of U.S. oil imports came from Iraq.(Besides declared Iraqi import, a lot of Iraqi oil came through the third countries).

Bluffing is good, but only when playing poker. See for yourself, from U.S. Department of Energy, one you suggested:
http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/dnav/pet/pet_move_impcus_a2_nus_ep00_im0_mbbl_a.htm

It's better to check by yourself than rely on false info Modesty Blaise feeds you.

This illustration is relevant for Serbia, because it shows that if you have the export product, you can export it regardless of diplomatic relations. The problem is - Serbia does not have much to offer. The export to U.S. is negligible, the same as American aid. Recently, Bush approved aid to Serbia of some 10 million dollars. It's one dollar per capita. I guess your mother in law and your children could survive without that 3-4 dollars of American aid.

I found your change of heart astonishing. From someone who
opposed theft of Kosovo in April, you have turned into someone who use false arguments based on false data to defend what he himself opposed only four months ago.

I was interested in constructive dialogue. Since it is not possible, I am out.

Bob Petrovich,

So I'm a bad bluffer am I. Let's look at your game plan then:

You said: "the biggest U.S. oil import from ME came from Saddam's Iraq, not from Kuwait or Saudi Arabia."

From the link that YOU provide:
Oil imported to US in 2001 from Iraq was 289,998 thousand barrels.
Oil imported to US in 2001 from Saudi was 606,753 thousand barrels.

So, Imports form Iraq are larger than Saudi are they?

That's why I say your comments is an "abject absurdity". You've just proven it for me and for everyone else to see.

Modesty is a cute little thing who often serves me well. You should try it some time.

Shame you're getting out because the last bit of your post was actually starting to make some logical sense - and helping my point into the bargain. I guess that's why you're getting out, when you talk logic it destroys the ideological drivel you're peddling.

My thoughts on Kosovo have not changed. I've spent the last week identifying your attempt to take Serbia back to the dark ages in the name of 'Serbian pride from the diaspora'.

Look forward to seeing you again. Hope next time you come with some accurate facts and some honest debate. Goodbye.

Some of our resident pro-Albanian/independence voters have a selective memory when it comes to the history of the SFRJ. Well let me clear up a few things about

Slovenia. True, Slovenia was the golden goose of the SFRJ earning close to 25% of the GDP. Slovenia's main gripe against the SFRJ was economic not political. May I remind Joe and Mr Isufii that alot of the money being generated by the Slovenes was going to Kosovo to fund those various generous welfare programmes and infrastructure.

Once it was not in Slovenia's interest to remain in the SFRJ, they left bringing down the whole federation like a house of cards.

Secondly, looking at the military aspect. The JNA in Slovenia comprised mainly of teenage conscripts coming up against well armed, trained and highly motivated Slovene police and TO. Kadijevic believed that the Slovenes would roll over as soon as they saw the tanks was proved wrong. The request of the JNA Chiefs of Staff (Brovat, Kolsek, Kadijevic and Adzic) to redeploy 60,000 troops stationed in Nis, Skopje and Belgrade to pacify Slovenia was vetoed by Milosevic who rightly saw the unfeasability of the Generals' plan because the army would not have been able to hold Slovenia due to the upcoming conflict in Croatia. Remember the JNA had to pass through Croatian territory and its soldiers were already by late June 1991 under virtual siege in their main barracks in Split, Osijek and Zagreb, not counting Slovenia's geographic position. iN short the JNA were not defeated in Slovenia, they abandoned it and instead concentrated its forces in Croatia and BiH where it was much more feasable to launch the defence of what was left of the SFRJ. Remember the JNA's main ideology and battle plan was the defence of YU and reallign the federation around the centralised control from Belgrade.

Lastly, Mr. Garvin. Serbia simply cannot give up Kosovo. If it did it would be a fatal blow for the very integrity of the Serbian state as was Slovenia's departure was for SFRJ. It would send out the wrong signal and be seen by the Preshevo Albanians, Sandzak Muslims and other groups as a sign of weakness that Belgrade cannot even maintain its own sovereignty and would fuel their own individual demands for secession. Rememeber Serbia is a multiethnic state.

Niall O'Doherty,

Good afternoon. I couldn't agree with you more if I tried. Slovenia's position in 1990 was pure selfishness based upon economic issues not political. They decided to persue independence in the full knowledge that they would manage to break free from SFRJ with relative ease and that they would condemn the rest of the SFRJ to a bloodbath.

In regards to Kosovo, I also fully agree. The current US position that independence should be granted based upon the threat of violence is akin to the appeasement of Munich 1938. The US in particular, the EU to a lesser extent, is more concerned about the credibility of their position rather than the credibility of the policy!

However, it's not the US or the EU position that worries me. It's the Russians we should be wary of. If you delve under the surface, it is actually very much in their interest to see Kosovo declare unilateral independence, have this recognised by the US and the EU (but not the UNSC), to enjoy the greatest degree of independence as possible and, as icing on the cake, to encourage Serbia not to resist too forcefully. I see the Russians have set an ambush into which the US and the EU is blissfully walking like the 3 monkeys. Serbia is just being used as an expendable pawn. Worrying, very worrying!

The threat, as noted by some above, is directed at U.S. policy in Europe, specifically related to Central Europe and Russia.

Serbia is counting on the idea that the U.S. can't afford an enemy like Serbia in the Balkans.

I believe that the Serbs have been one of the greatest allies of the U.S. in the Balkans, if not worldwide.

Speaking as an American, I think it would be a shame for us to lose a great ally for the sake of another who is questionable at best.